Kyra's Law Awaits Governor Hochul's Decision to Reform New York Custody Court Procedures

Ten years following the tragic death of two-year-old Kyra Franchetti during an unsupervised visit, New York stands on the brink of significant judicial reform. Kyra’s Law (A6194C/S5998) has successfully passed both the Senate and Assembly with overwhelming support and now awaits Governor Kathy Hochul’s signature. This legislation aims to fundamentally transform how New York courts handle custody disputes, particularly when credible allegations of domestic violence or child safety risks are raised by parents.

For families currently navigating the legal system, the proposed law mandates expedited evidentiary hearings within 20 court days of a safety concern. Furthermore, it broadens the scope of admissible evidence, allowing judges to review police reports, protective orders, and registry data without requiring formal certification. These changes are designed to ensure that child safety remains the primary focus of every judicial decision, moving away from standard procedures that have historically left vulnerable children at risk during ongoing litigation.

Legal experts at Kantrowitz, Goldhamer, Graifman, Perlmutter & Carballo, P.C. emphasize that parents should proactively gather documentation, including medical records and correspondence, to prepare for these accelerated timelines. If enacted, the law will require mandatory judicial training on domestic violence, ensuring that those presiding over sensitive cases possess the necessary expertise to protect children effectively. This shift represents a critical evolution in family law, prioritizing immediate protective measures over traditional, slower-moving court processes.